LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex to be lowered to half-staff on Wednesday, Sept. 26, in recognition of Memphis firefighter Robert Phillips II who died Sunday.

"Robert was a true hero who gave the ultimate sacrifice to save the lives of his fellow Michiganders,” Snyder said. “We will remember him fondly for his service and devotion to his community and Michigan. Sue and I send thoughts and prayers to his family, friends and the entire Memphis Fire Department during this difficult time.”

Phillips worked at Brass Aluminum Forging as a project engineer and volunteered with the Memphis Fire Department since 1979, where he previously served as chief of the department. Phillips was a loving husband, father and grandfather who enjoyed camping, bicycling and bowling.

A service will be held in his honor Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Kammeraad-Merchant Funeral Home, 80375 Main St. in Memphis.

This flag order is in accordance with Executive Order 2013-10. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations also are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff. Flags should be returned to full-staff on Thursday, Sept. 27.

When flown at half-staff or half-mast, the U.S. flag should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff or half-mast position. The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.